Wiring the Rez: Innovation across Indian Country

Background

• Read more about Explainer: Tribal Nations Criticize FCC’s Tribal Consultation Efforts on Proposed NEPA and NHPA Rule Updates

On September 3, 2025 the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) issued a new National Policy Memorandum establishing a comprehensive framework for processing Rights-of-Way applications for broadband infrastructure deployment projects on Indian trust or restricted lan

• Read more about Fact Sheet: Bureau of Indian Affairs Publishes Framework for Processing Rights-of-Way Applications for Broadband Infrastructure Projects

Federal policy and directive around artificial intelligence (AI) has shifted considerably in recent years. In 2023, President Biden issued  EO 14110, Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence, which emphasized safety, equity, worker protections, and privacy in federal AI policy.

• Read more about AI in Federal Policy: Implications for Tribal Nations

The American Indian Policy Institute’s Indigenous Leadership Academy (ILA) continues to highlight the journeys of its alumni through the “Where Are They Now?” series. This installment features Marcus Benally, a financial leader, mentor, and connector of people whose impact has extended across Native communities and professional networks alike.

• Read more about ILA Alumni Marcus Benally: Building Confidence and Connections Through Leadership

The American Indian Policy Institute’s Indigenous Leadership Academy (ILA) is currently supporting its second cohort. Community members and stakeholders can sign up here to follow along and receive updates.

• Read more about ILA Alumni Asheli Mann-Lofthouse: Using Cultural Values to Drive Systems Change

The decision in  Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo. is just as impactful as the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade,  its ruling on Presidential immunity, or any of the other recent blockbuster decisions. On its face, Loper Bright appeared to be a rather benign case involving commercial fishing vessels and whether private parties had to pay for federal observers on those vessels for purposes of monitoring possible overfishing – a scenario with little relevance to most tribes.

• Read more about Unrelenting Litigation? The Supreme Court’s Overruling of Chevron in Loper Bright Enterprises & Relentless, Inc. and What’s Next for Tribes

Earlier this month, H.R. 7888 was introduced to reauthorize the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA).

• Read more about Reauthorization of H.R. 7888 carries substantial implications for Tribal Sovereignty

• Read more about Explainer: BEAD Challenge Process: AZ BEAD Program Update

What does this program offer? 

• Read more about Everything you need to know about Tribal Energy Leaders Fellowship (TELF)

The application for the Fall 2023 cohort of the Indigenous Leadership Academy (ILA) will open on July 3, 2023.

• Read more about We've Got the Answers to Your Questions